Frequently Asked Questions
What do families like most about Sammamish Children's School facility?
Our large campus has been built for children and their families. Both classrooms and playground areas have been thoughtfully designed for kids of all ages. There are big play toys for climbing and sliding and covered sandboxes that give children many choices of where to play and explore.
The inside of our classrooms have a very open feel with appropriately sized furniture for the different age groups. Even the sinks and bathrooms are built just for kids, making your child feel comfortable and capable in their school surroundings. Many parents comment on how clean and well-organized our classrooms are.
Parents also like our location (207 228th Ave. SE) where they can easily drop off kids and conveniently get to/from our school to work or home.
At what age can children enroll at Sammamish Children's School?
Children one year and older can attend full or part-time through kindergarten. Students can continue on in our before & after school care through age 10 or the fourth grade.
Are meals included in the tuition?
Yes. As a convenience for parents, lunch plus three snacks are provided for full-day students. Part-time students receive lunch plus one snack. We serve nutritious foods that kids love.
What are your student/teacher ratios?
Our teacher to child ratio for our one year olds is 1 to 6 and for our two year olds is 1 to 7. For preschool our ratio is 1 to 10, and for kindergarten the ratio is 1 to 15. We can provide excellent care by having superior teachers, quality supplies, a first-rate facility and professional support and supervision.
What about staff turnover?
Our school’s most important asset is the teachers who work with your children. We work very hard to keep them happy. Our wages, benefits and work environment are at the top of the childcare industry. We treat our teachers as professionals and our turnover is low.
What do parents with children in public elementary schools say they like best about your before & after school care for K-5 students?
Parents like the convenience of provided transportation to and from local public elementary schools. They like that Sammamish is open even on days the public schools are closed. There is no additional charge for transportation to and from these public schools. And, ultimately, they like how our outstanding program prepares their children to excel in future educational settings.
Which elementary schools do the children in your before/after school program attend?
Currently we drop off and pick up at Carson, McAuliffe, Mead and Smith Elementary Schools.
Do I need an appointment to visit my child at the school?
Yes, please call in advance to arrange a tour of the school. Once a child is enrolled, parents may drop in any time they wish.
How do you determine snow day schedules?
Our school rarely closes due to snow. We work hard to stay open. In case of inclement weather, check online for school closure information
Do you close for vacations or school training days?
The only days we close are New Year’s Day, Martin Luther King’s Birthday, Memorial Day, Independence Day, Labor Day, Thanksgiving and the day after Thanksgiving, and Christmas. We also schedule some teacher training days with advanced notice.
What’s your discipline policy?
Our teachers guide the class interactions so that each child learns the value of cooperation and gains skill in solving conflicts in a positive manner. We use our best professional judgment when implementing necessary supervision and control. We stress positive reinforcement and redirection. Negative and/or disruptive behavior that persists will be discussed with the parents and a joint plan of action will be taken. Corporal punishment is not used.
How do I prepare my child for the first day of school?
Try to visit with your child before their first day. Point out activities, toys or games that you as a parent know your child will find especially appealing. If possible, have your child introduced to the teacher. In advance of your child’s first day tell your child you will be leaving and that their teacher will take care of them while you are away. Let your child know that you are looking forward to hearing about what they did and the fun they had while they were at school.
How do you recommend a parent leave their child at school?
Children do best with a predictable routine. Bring your child into the classroom and say hello to the teacher. The teacher will give you and your child a friendly greeting. If you have time it can be helpful to help your child get settled in to an activity. Sometimes a very young child has an easier transition with the help of a “lovey” from home such as a stuffed animal or special blanket. Say goodbye and perhaps some special words of encouragement, wave and maybe blow a kiss and then go. Once you say goodbye do leave right away. Parting is usually made more difficult for the child if the parent leaves and then returns. If your child cries as you leave allow the teacher to provide comfort. When you get to your destination you can always call and find out how your child is doing.
Do you include a curriculum in your toddler or preschool programs?
Beginning in our toddler classes, children receive age-appropriate instruction. See our program section for a description of our curriculum.
What are your operating hours?
We’re open from 6:30 AM to 6:00 PM, Monday through Friday, every week of the year, January through December.
Do you include a curriculum in your toddler or preschool programs?
Yes. Beginning in our toddler classes, children receive age-appropriate instruction. See our program section for a description of our curriculum.
Do you have a kindergarten on site?
Yes, our full day kindergarten has all the conveniences of our location as well as experienced, certified teachers, a low teacher/student ratio and an certified innovative curriculum.
